The evidence of a successful event was seen last Thursday (April 20) at Hangar 175 of the Springbank Airport.

The Kimmett family was not only able to donate $125,000 to the Children's Wish Foundation but they were able to take part in making a longtime dream come true.

This year's Kimmett Cup fulfilled their goal of $500,000 for Children's Wish Foundation and although they thought it may take ten years, the family was able to fulfil it in only four. Kelly Kimmett says although their goal was met, the family will likely carry on supporting wishes for children with life threatening illnesses.

"I believe it will continue, it is such a good group to work with and to see what actually becomes of a wish live today makes us even more determined."

Tristan 14, is an Ambassador for Children's Wish Foundation and while he thought he was on site to receive the funds a surprise plan was in the works. Tristan was a big supporter of the Kimmett Cup, so for the Kimmetts' to watch his dream come true was beyond words. Diane Kimmett shares this is the first time the family has taken part in a live wish."Tristan has such a special place in my heart and I am just so thrilled to see him get this opportunity." 

For Tristan this was a dream and wish come true, he says he is usually pretty good at figuring out surprises but he had no idea this was coming."Thanks to Children's Wish and the Kimmett Cup for organizing this; it is just amazing, there are no words to describe."

Tristan has had the wish to fly for the past couple years but his diagnosis of Ewing's Sarcoma in 2014 has kept him grounded. Tristan continues to fight the aggressive cancer and even passed up his oncology appointment to be part of the presentation.

Tristan headed out on his flight shortly after noon and says his favourite part of the flight was lifting off. Besides noticing how small everything looked he was even able to take control of the flight. “Luca taught me how to use the joystick, which was pretty cool. I didn’t fly that much, I got tired, and I didn’t feel like crashing in a big fiery wreck so I was careful. I was trying not to crash!”

Children's Wish Foundation grants wishes to children ages 3-17 battling life threatening illnesses. Through the Alberta and Northwest Territory Chapter the foundation expects to grant roughy 130 wishes this year and 1200 new wishes across Canada. 

For Tristan, his family. the Kimmett family and committee, Children's Wish Foundation representatives, Luca Ribetti of LR Helicopters, the media, and airport staff , this was an experience no one will forget.

 

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